KOCHI: She is a pioneer of sorts who revolutionised the beauty industry in the country. When we met Dr Blossom Kochhar at the recently held seminar - ‘Aroma Magic Beauty Treatments and Hair Design’ - in the city, she was taking a break after a series of demonstrations and lectures on summer looks in make-up and hair styling, which was attended by about 250 beauticians from across the state. But the celebrity stylist and queen of aromatherapy looked the least bit tired, exuding warmth with a welcome smile on her face. A down-to-earth person who is passionate and sincere about her work. That is the first impression that one gets as they converse with her.
Blossom is also popular among her students. One of the leading beauticians in the state, Shobha Kunchan, is one of her former students. She was all in awe of her teacher. “She is a doctor but she won’t tell you that. You should make her talk,” says Shobha about her most revered teacher. In reply, Blossom says with a lot of love and affection, “She is one of my brightest students and she is doing so well.”
The founder of the Blossom Kochhar Group of Companies, which owns successful brands like Aroma Magic and Aroma Vedda, Blossom was in the city not only to introduce summer trends and looks but also her latest beauty products - Aroma Magic Spa Jewel Facial, Aroma Magic Hair Spa, and Aroma Magic Skin Firming Treatment.
“Beauty is holistic and aromatherapy works through your mind,” says Blossom who runs the Blossom Kochhar College of Creative Arts and Design (BKCCAD) and the Blossom Kochhar Aesthetics and Spa Academy.
Lavender oil is the most popular among pure essential oils because of its therapeutic qualities, she says. Jasmine gives you confidence and is an anti-depressant. It also gives elasticity to your skin. Sandalwood oil clams your down, rose eases anxiety, patchouli is good for anti-ageing and orange makes you happy. These oils are easy to use. Put a few drops in a tissue and carry them around or use them in your bath water or have a massage with these oils for the desired effect.
“I have done a lot of research into this. Many years ago when I entered the beauty industry the oils that were available in the market were not pure and had synthetic properties. But I was looking for pure essential oils.” It is her exhaustive research for well over 25 years that eventually gave rise to the brand ‘Aroma Magic.’
Blossom who is coming to Kochi after a long break says the beauty industry is booming. “Now, people have started taking hair styling more seriously which was not the scene in Kerala 10 years ago. But people here are still not ready to experiment with hair colours,” says Blossom.
About her latest products to hit the market, she says - “Unlike gold or pearl facials which are not suitable for all skin types, jewel facials can do wonders to your complexion. Usually a bride comes and asks for the facial of her choice, which may or may not be right for her skin. A gold facial is good only for dry skin and pearl for oily skin. But jewel facials are good for all skin types. They give your skin a lasting glow. It works on ayurvedic principles and is the best choice for brides as the gorgeous glow will last for long ‑‑ from wedding to honeymoon,” she says.
The jewel hair spa is for dry hair and will last for two washes. For skin firming, she is introducing specialised facepacks and firming gels with Himalayan herbs. “You can do it at home. Just apply it on your face for 20 minutes and wash it off for a youthful glow.”
Blossom will be back in the city soon for more workshops. “The beauty industry is extremely dynamic and trends in the industry change at a fast pace. We keep updating regularly,” she says.
Blossom is always on the move, travelling all over the country and even abroad updating herself with the latest practices and developments in the beauty industry.
So, what is the secret of her energy and youthful glow? “It could be a combination of aromatherapy, yoga, meditation and daily walks,” says Blossom with a smile.
manuvipin@newindianexpress.com